Does anyone really use their computer as a true media center? The only widespread configuration we can imagine, for now, is the computer as digital music hub. Which is why Logitech's MX Air Cordless Laser Mouse may actually be filling a need, as opposed to simply being an excellent cordless mouse/pointer.

And it really is excellent—probably the best pointer we've tried—due to a tremor cancellation feature that steadies the cursor on the screen, much like image stabilization in a camcorder. Considering how small most menu options are on your computer, this was more helpful than it might sound. After using the MX Air, every other pointer felt like a shaky, inaccurate mess. [Check out hands-on video here; review continues below...]

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Logitech incorporated Hillcrest Labs' Freespace technology into the MX Air, combining micromechanical motion sensors and digital signal processing to make the mouse seem far more accurate than a gyroscopic pointer. And switching between mouse and pointer was a seamless transition—we simply lifted it from the desk or other surface, and after a brief pause, it was a pointer. That pause is well-conceived, since a truly instant transition would have sent the cursor flying to the edge of the screen. By waiting a moment, the mouse lets you get your three-dimensional bearings.

Like other pointers, the MX Air lets you perform gesture commands. On both Macs and PCs, you can adjust the master volume by hitting the "Volume" button, and swiping the mouse right and left. On PCs, you can wave the mouse in a circle to skip tracks. All of which we were able to do with zero software installation, and from across the room. Logitech says the range is up to 30 ft. away from the USB receiver, which lines up with our tests.

Still, if the MX Air were simply an accurate pointer, it wouldn't be worth $150. But the look and design is on par with high-end computer mice and remote controls, with a long, tapered profile that's comfortable to hold in either role. When it's not in use, the mouse is sleek, featureless and piano black, sitting in its charging cradle. When you pick it up, the orange buttons glow from beneath the plastic, and the touch-sensitive scroll panel clicks as you swipe it.

In a mouse packed with great features, the scroll panel might be our favorite—it's the touch-sensitive equivalent of a free-rolling wheel, letting us slowly track down through an iTunes window or Word document, or fly through it with a quick flick, stopping again with a tap. It took some practice, but after a few minutes we were able to race through song lists and massive documents. The included software lets you customize the MX Air, but that's not necessary. This is a premium-quality mouse, and a seemingly flawless pointer, right out of the box. —Erik Sofge